POLICE investigating the “thuggish” behaviour of the Hunter’s bikie gangs have uncovered a possible illegal alcohol racket at Heatherbrae. Strike Force Raptor North conducted a licencing operation at the Bandidos clubhouse in Heatherbrae on Saturday. Investigators searched the premises and 35 members and associates of the club’s Port Stephens chapter. A large amount of alcohol, fireworks and an amount of cocaine was seized. These items will undergo forensic examination. A 34-year-old man was issued a field court attendance notice for possess prohibited drug. He is due to appear at Raymond Terrace Local Court on Monday March 25. Inquiries into the alleged illegal sale of alcohol at the site are continuing. Criminal Groups Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Deborah Wallace, said the operation at the weekend should put all criminal networks on notice. “Strike Force Raptor will always be on the front foot when it comes to targeting these thuggish groups and preventing further criminal acts,” Supt Wallace said. “Our investigators are proactive, dogged, and keen to make the community a safer place.” Strike Force Raptor was established in 2009 and conducts proactive investigations and intelligence-based, high-impact policing operations to prevent and disrupt conflicts, and dismantle any network engaged in serious organised criminal activity. Anyone with information, including relevant photos and videos, that may assist Strike Force Raptor can report it directly to investigators via the Strike Force Raptor online reporting page: https://www1.police.nsw.gov.au/Default.aspx?id=49 or call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Information provided to investigators will be treated in strict confidence. While you’re with us, did you know The Herald is now offering breaking news alerts, daily email newsletters and more? Keep up-to-date with all the local news - sign up here.

Bikie clubhouse searched: alcohol, fireworks, cocaine seized

POLICE investigating the “thuggish” behaviour of the Hunter’s bikie gangs have uncovered a possible illegal alcohol racket at Heatherbrae.

Strike Force Raptor North conducted a licencing operation at the Bandidos clubhouse in Heatherbrae on Saturday.

Investigators searched the premises and 35 members and associates of the club’s Port Stephens chapter. A large amount of alcohol, fireworks and an amount of cocaine was seized. These items will undergo forensic examination.

A 34-year-old man was issued a field court attendance notice for possess prohibited drug. He is due to appear at Raymond Terrace Local Court on Monday March 25.

Inquiries into the alleged illegal sale of alcohol at the site are continuing.

Criminal Groups Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Deborah Wallace, said the operation at the weekend should put all criminal networks on notice.

“Strike Force Raptor will always be on the front foot when it comes to targeting these thuggish groups and preventing further criminal acts,” Supt Wallace said.

“Our investigators are proactive, dogged, and keen to make the community a safer place.”

Strike Force Raptor was established in 2009 and conducts proactive investigations and intelligence-based, high-impact policing operations to prevent and disrupt conflicts, and dismantle any network engaged in serious organised criminal activity.